Tips to get you through the mid-term exams

As the mid-term exams approach it’s usually a period when learners go through a stressful time at school.

Principal of Abbott College Joburg South Marion Kohler, who is herself a mother, gave a few tips to help your child get through the stressful period.

Kohler said: “We need to be realistic about our children and their abilities and remember that one examination is never a determinant for success in life. We have to encourage them to perform to the best of their ability but not at the expense of our relationship with them or the damage parents can inflict on their self-esteem and identity formation.”

Here are some of the ways you can support your child during the mid-terms:

• Download the examination timetable in advance and ensure it is visible in your house where you and your child can monitor the calendar.

• Assist your child in coming up with a study timetable (many schools may conduct workshops to assist with this).

• Ensure the scope of study for all subjects is downloaded and available in advance (most schools will give this out at least four to six weeks before examinations commence).

• Ensure your child has approached teachers early on if there are concepts that are challenging and need further clarification.

• If your child is struggling with finishing tests on time, does not get through work fast enough, reads very slowly, or does not write neatly, it may be a good idea to get him/her tested by an Educational Psychologist who can assist with applying for concessions.

• Buy A4 feint and margin books for every subject so that note-taking is in one place for the full year and not on pieces of paper that are scattered around the house.

• Ensure your child has a quiet place to study, with a desk and necessary stationery (‘passive studying’ on a bed is ineffective – separate, if possible, the spaces where they sleep and where they work).

• Eliminate distractions and lay down the rules during examination periods (especially cellphones, social media, gaming).

• Ensure your child continues with healthy pursuits such as exercising and sport and that they eat as healthily as possible.

• Do not always believe your teen! Be aware, switched on, available, supportive yet receptive to how and what they are studying.

Kohler said, “In my opinion, a little extrinsic motivation during study time for teenagers can be effective. Many are not intrinsically motivated to study and there are pros and cons to rewarding and incentivising your teen.

“You know your child best and what they are capable of. Giving them goals and possible rewards, without undue pressure that could create anxiety may be the catalyst for your child to motivate them.”